Paul, I use redwood planks from the lumberyard for the wood. The tools are usually first a router, then the hammer and chisles for the more detailed things and the stuff that needs to be shaped. After that, it's given the Witco treatment and voila!

I'm still not actually happy with the colors of the mask, I think they are a little too vibrant for the palette associated with png masks. Also, there are carving things that I'd do differently on it as well... Probably gonna make another one to see if I can get it 'right.' Eventually....

Oh, and I have a BFA in graphic design at a college in northern CA. I took lots of sculpting classes and general art classes in reaching that degree... I'm sure that helped at least a little bit.

Again, thanks for the words everyone. I'm just tryin to make cool stuff.
_________________Spike
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I'm still not actually happy with the colors of the mask, I think they are a little too vibrant for the palette associated with png masks. Also, there are carving things that I'd do differently on it as well... Probably gonna make another one to see if I can get it 'right.' Eventually....

Spike-Try a light white wash if you want to tone down the vibrancy. (is that a word? p.s. I thought they looked great the other eve. Can't wait to see that Gobi panel and or story board.
Aloha! BB
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New vintage mask score from Tiki Oasis!
It's from the Lower Sepik region of Papua New Guinea. Found a perfect spot for it next to our string of shrunken heads!
Good Stuff! I wish I would have bought more of these masks when I saw them!

I should mention that Dinah DeRosa had a big hand in building that bar with Ben. Just slipped my mind at the time.
Also, The Hula Girls music is really comprised of late '50s rockabilly, early '60s surf, hillbilly, and hapa haole music.
It's easier to think about and write rather than to jabber on about 'on the spot.'

Did you notice the brand new Hula Girls' song that is featured throughout!